The Role of Polyurethane Chemistry on the Properties of Phenolic Foams Applied in the Thermal Insulation Industry

Abstract

Advanced materials applied in the thermal insulation industry require not on-ly to produce structures with superior energy efficiency but with very low flame in-itiation and propagation. Phenolic Foams (PF) continue to be the material of choice when fire resistance is a primary design requirement. The new generation of PF involves the use of the polyurethane chemistry, composites technology and nanotechnology to achieve materials with superior thermo-mechanical, fire per-formance and insulation properties combined with a low friability. A key aspect to achieve this is related to a synergistic approach based on the versatility of the isocyanate chemistry. To this effect, this chapter will focus on how reactive routes based on changing molecular structure, the use of composites and nanocompo-sites can affect cure kinetics, environmental impact, flammability, thermal con-ductivity as well as friability of contemporary phenolic foams. Based on the state of the art in this area, the principles of using the polyurethane chemistry to aid the development of new phenolic precursors is laid out. The analysis is furtherly ex-tended and substantiated through the comparison of study cases and by centering the discussion in thermal insulation foams.